The Maíria Cahill case
In recent weeks, the case of Maíria Cahill hasn’t been far from the public eye. Cast into the domain via a multitude of media outlets. It seems that every paper, radio and news channel has covered in since it was exposed a few weeks ago.
We have witnessed thousands come out in support for Maíria and her quest for justice, and sadly we have witnessed many come out, usually hiding behind a pseudonym in an attempt to tarnish Maíria and the wider Cahill family. Those who have hid behind fake social media profiles to attack a victim of serious sexual abuse are nothing short of disgraceful.
Republican Network for Unity would like to put on record that we support Maíria Cahill and recognise her right to gain contentment in any way she sees fit.
Over the last 45 years many within working class Republican communities turned to the Republican movement to deal with policing issues, and we realise this is because a policing vacuum has always existed in our society, anyone who attempts to fill that gap is duty bound to do so with the rights of the victim being primary and the rights of the movement next. The Provisional movement should have handled this case, and many other sexual abuse cases in a much more respectful, dignified and professional way, however they failed to do so, causing a great deal of distress to a young Maíria and her family.
The Provisional movement must admit their role in covering up her abuse and protecting her abuser, in an attempt to protect their own name. We understand that in the context of a long and exhausting war that mistakes are inevitable and no movement is without its faults. However, the Provisional movement must offer Maíria some consolation and attempt to right their wrongs.
This week in Leinster House, Gerry Adams offered a sincere apology to those who were wronged by the Provisional movement when it came to the investigation of sex abuse, however he refused to offer individual apologies. Gerry and his colleagues must go one step further and apologise to the victims who have come forward to tell of their tragedy.
A full apology must be offered to Maíria and her family for the trauma that was forced upon them. This apology must be unconditional and recognise that Maíria is a victim who has been gravely wronged by the Provisional movement. Maíria gave a significant period of her life to Republican activism, and like any individual on this island she deserves the justice she seeks.
